Fans of Diablo 4 have condemned Blizzard’s plans for its battle pass, with some they will stop playing the game after the changes were announced.
While Blizzard’s action role-playing game (ARPG) has retained a loyal fan base since its first release in 1997, this sequel has been a huge hit. Just one day after its release, it became Blizzard’s fastest-selling game ever.
Diablo 4 is set in the fantasy world of Sanctuary. Players gradually improve their customised characters in order against demonic monsters in a series of dungeon battles.
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However, upcoming changes to the game have divided players. The game will soon be releasing its first battle pass, entitled Diablo Season 1, which is effectively an update to the game containing brand new free and premium content. Its release date has not been confirmed as of yet.
This means you will have to create a completely new character to access the new seasonal features. On Twitter, Diablo developer Rod Fergusson confirmed the change.
Responding to a query about the battle pass, he said: “Yes to take part in the seasonal questline, mechanics, season journey and battle pass, you will need to create a new seasonal character. Playing campaign with seasonal character (if you so desire or need to finish) will also progress the season journey and battle pass.”
This has angered many newcomers to the franchise, who do not want to have to start afresh with a new character to access these features.
Responding to Regusson’s comments on Twitter, one said: “Got to be honest - as a new player, I don’t see myself grinding like this again. If I have to start from scratch for season one I’m likely done maining Diablo.”
They added: “And I know there’s a ton of people in the same boat. I care about my current character.”
Another said: “I’ve tried to start another character but the grind already is too brutal for most people that aren’t hard core streamers or students etc. The idea of doing everything again every season… it’s just not respectful of our time.”
A third said: “Since I paid for the 1st season I'll make a new character but after that I'm done. Re-leveling off the same content with some new and small twists isn't my idea of fun to rinse and repeat.”
However, more longer-term fans argued that ARPGs always operate in this way, including Diablo 3. One said: “Watching people find out how Diablo works and has always worked is hilarious. I hope the team ignores the outcry because seasonal grind is fine as is.”
Another said: “People mad at an ARPG for having a seasonal system where you start a new character is a new level of stupidity.”
A third added: “This is just part of the learning curve for folks new to the ARPG genre and Diablo franchise. The new season mechanic and class changes are fun to play, figure out the new gameplay. Give it a try and have an open mind!”
Diablo 4 was released earlier this month. It is available to play on all consoles and PC.
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